The capital’s favourite food, drink and music festival returns to du Arena, Yas Island in Abu Dhabi this weekend for its sixth edition and is absolutely jam-packed with the most exciting restaurants, world-class chefs, an incredible lineup of music, tantalising fresh features and over 100 exhibitors.
As the doors open on Thursday 7 November at 4pm which runs runs through til Saturday 9 November, here’s a full guide on what not to miss at all during this three-day food, drink and music extravaganza that happens just once a year:
Music Acts
For the first time ever, Taste of Abu Dhabi will host two international headline music acts UB40 and Boyzlife. UB40 featuring Ali Campbell and Astro from the legendary English reggae and pop band and four-time Grammy Award nominees will kick-start the festival on Thursday 7 November performing chartbusters from their latest album ‘For the Many’, as well as UB40 classics ‘Food For Thought’, ‘One In Ten’, ‘I Can’t Help Falling In Love With You’ and ‘Sing Our Own Song’.
On Friday, 8 November, Boyzlife duo Keith Duffy and Brian McFadden, will perform a mixture of the greatest hits from Westlife and Boyzone including ‘Flying Without Wings’, ‘No Matter What’, ‘I Love The Way You Love Me’, ‘Swear It Again’, ‘Love Me For A Reason’, and ‘Baby Can I Hold You’.
International Food Sampling Pavilion
At Taste of Abu Dhabi you will be able to sample your way around the world at the International Food Sampling Pavilion with a free selection of international delicacies and the best organic and fresh produce in the Middle East including honey, dates, juices, arabic sweets, biscuits and coffee to taste at the pop-up stalls.
Sample Emirati Flavours
You’ll be able to experience the flavours of the UAE and learn about local traditions and culture at the Emirati Flavours Pavilion whilst sampling traditional Arabic coffee and dates whilst you browse through beautiful handmade crafts and more.
The Big Baking Tent By ICCA
Master Pâtissier Eric Lanlard returns to Taste of Abu Dhabi with baking masterclasses at the Big Baking Tent by ICCA, alongside local and international pastry experts sharing tips and tricks for Abu Dhabi’s budding baking enthusiasts to join in.
Chef’s Theatre
Watch the masters at work as you learn tips and tricks from this year’s Taste of Abu Dhabi celebrity chefs including Jean Christophe Novelli, John Torode, Annabel Karmel and Kunal Kapur. The Chefs’ Theatre will teach you a multitude of new tips and techniques and new innovations in ingredients in the kitchen.
Kids Zone
There will be lots of fun for the whole family, with kids 12 and under getting free entry. There will be a dedicated Kids’ Zone to keep the little ones entertained including everything from arts and crafts, inflatables to face painting, and much more. Kids will also be able to work off some energy with free trampolining with BOUNCE Inc.
Participating Restaurants
Restaurants confirmed include: Lebanese fare at Sambusek, a supreme steak experience from Butcher & Still, exquisite Indian cuisine from Namak by Kunal Kapur, modern interpretations of classic Chinese dishes at Dai Pai Dong, the best-known French dishes at La Brasserie and a unique interpretation of Mediterranean cuisine at Todd English’s Olives.
Ticket prices start from Dhs 70. This year Taste of Abu Dhabi will also offer you a brunch in the sun with the Ultimate Taste Experience ticket starting at Dhs 290 which includes four food and six drink vouchers.
The event is open on Thursday 7 November from 4pm to 12 midnight, Friday 8 November from 12 noon to 12 midnight and on Saturday 9 November from 12 noon to 11pm.
For full details visit www.tasteabudhabi.com